In this episode, I dive into the Sociology of SNAP—the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—and explore how it reflects America’s values, inequalities, and systems of social control. From the history of food stamps to the modern fight against hunger, I unpack how food, policy, and society are all connected.
Small business spotlight: Mojito_cf (Instagram)
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I’m back with a cheeky voice memo! This time, I’m exploring the lost art of writing a handwritten letter. In an age of digital messages and quick texts, a letter is a value-based way to communicate that truly brings us closer.
You know the drill—listen, share, and don’t forget to subscribe.
Sincerely,
Yours truly,
Kind regards,
Cordially yours,
Jessamyn Reichmann.
Let's talk about Anxiety! Nope-- I'm not talking about Doechii's song called "Anxiety," I'm talking about an experience that we all share.
In this episode, we'll be exploring the sociology of anixety, discussing its definitions, societal trends, and the impact of social media. The conversation delves into two sociological theories—Structural Strain Theory and Postmodern Theory—to understand how societal pressures shape anxiety.
I will offer practical solutions (specimen solutions) for managing anxiety, emphasizing the importance of viewing disruptions as opportunities, using anxiety as a roadmap, and the power of forgiveness. The episode concludes with personal reflections on the importance of being present and the benefits of stepping back from social media.
If you're curious to learn-- press play and turn that volume up!
Resources:
DJ Nayiram (IG: djnayiram)
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Hey there, hi there!
What better way to wrap-up our loneliness series then by with a book review. In Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Author Dr. Jeremy Noble investigates loneloiness not just as a deeply personal experince, but as a widespread public health issue.
If your curious to learn more about loneliness from a medical standpoint with a sprinkle of creative problem-solving, this podcast is the one for you!
Topics discussed:
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We’re back with a new bonus episode on people-pleasing!
This time, we’re looking at people-pleasing not as a personal flaw, but as a social behavior shaped by power, structure, and the need to belong. We’ll explore the sociology behind it — from Goffman’s dramaturgy to Asch’s conformity experiments — and unpack how gender roles, hierarchy, and cultural norms reinforce it. Plus, a few grounded points to help you recognize and start unlearning people-pleasing tendencies.
*If the episode is too long, peep this song "People Pleaser" by Cat Burns-- It's not sociological but it is soulful.
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In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, we explore the principle of identity — how it’s formed, what it reveals about us, and why it matters for the health of our relationships and society.
Drawing from both sociology and lived experience, Jessamyn Reichmann breaks down how identity takes shape through isolation, conflict, and subtraction. Whether you’re navigating loneliness, disappointment, or simply trying to understand yourself more clearly, this episode offers a thoughtful lens on how identity can serve as both a mirror and a foundation for meaningful change.
*The feedback is a wee-bit spicy on this episode! However, the overall message from this podcast is still powerful.
Business spotlight: Seattle Jazz Fellowship (@seattlejazzfellowship on IG)
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What happens when life gives you lemons — or, more accurately, disappointment? In this episode, Jessamyn shares practical tools for navigating seasons of setbacks and makes a bold claim: that true, authentic hope is born out of disappointment itself. If you're feeling curious, discouraged, or just in need of an emotional boost, turn up the volume and press play.Want to sow into the vision of this podcast? Click here.
In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, your host Jessamyn Reichmann (that’s “Specimen” with a J!) explores the quiet epidemic of loneliness—not just as an emotion, but as a social and structural issue. From Emile Durkheim’s Anomie Theory to her own personal stories, Jessamyn breaks down how our modern world reshapes connection—and what we can do about it.
With warmth, curiosity, and a little cheek, this episode reminds us that loneliness isn’t just about being alone—it’s about feeling unseen. And sometimes, the most powerful way to push back isn’t through grand gestures, but through small, sincere moments. Because every social interaction is a seed—and when planted with intention, it can grow into the kind of connection that changes everything.
Business spotlight:
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What’s love got to do with it? Absolutely everything. In this episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores how love is not just an emotional or personal experience, but a powerful tool for transformation. She argues that embracing love can lead to healthier relationships and a more mature version of yourself.
If you're curious to dive into the concept of love with a splash of sociology, press play and join us for this thought-provoking episode of Principle in a Pod.
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When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade! In Jessamyn Reichmann's case, when life gave her lessons, she recorded a podcast. In today's cheeky voice memo, Reichmann dives into all the impromptu lessons she learned from her friendships. Whether it was discovering that she wasn't always meant for certain friendships, learning how to take up space with others, or figuring out how to build intimacy, Jessamyn shares it all.
If you're not in the mood for lemonade but rather a few life lessons, press play and listen to this powerful episode
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The podcast that you didn't ask for but got! Today we're diving into the sociology behind Kendrick Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show. A performance that referenced the United State's current social-political scene, the resilience of Black people and even a celebrity performance with SZA, Mustard, and Serena Williams.
If you're feeling curious and want to put on your Sherlock Holmes Hat! Press play and learn about both the sociology and science behind Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show.
Additional resources:
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Today were going to discuss my favorite f-word and that's friendship! We'll be leveraging the Social Exchange Theory to better understand how we build friendships. This episode will explore how to build healthy relationships by becoming a healthy friend, the principle of reciprocity, and how to honorably leave a friendship.
I believe that friendships are the firm foundation for our social lives and it's time we reexamine them through a sociological lens.
Business spotlight:Frida (IG: shopfrida.co)
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What's a pod without a pea and podcast without a principle! Check out today's episode on empathy and learn how it can cultivate emotional intelligence in your life.
Song: Orange Blossom by GoldFord
Linktree: Specimenthesociologist
I know you’ve heard of conversation starters, but have you ever heard of "conversation enders?" In 2025, we’re all about saving time and mastering the art of gracefully exiting a chat—while keeping it cute and classy!
Linktree: Specimen the Sociologist
Inspired from the 90's sitcom "Sister, Sister!" Jessamyn dives into the science behind our sibling relationships. As she leverages the social concept of kinship and personal stories regarding her three siblings, Jessamyn unpacks not only how siblingship shapes society but how it has shaped her as an individual.
Snuggle up and get ready to dive into the world of siblingship!
Business spotlight: Cane and Table (IG: caneandtable)
Linktree: Specimen the sociologist
Jessamyn Reichmann redefines honor as an active act of giving value, not just respect or loyalty. She explores how honor shows up in social interactions, conversations, and relationships—whether caring for a friend or responding with empathy in conflict.
Tune in for a fresh perspective on how honor can elevate our connections and challenge the way we value ourselves and others
Link: Specimen the Sociologist
Let's put the function into the functionalist theory!
In today’s episode, we explore Emile Durkheim’s functionalist theory, which highlights the role of social institutions like the family in maintaining societal stability. We specifically focus on the role parents play in socializing their children, teaching them how to navigate the world around them.
Whether through intentional guidance or subtle observation, parents shape the values and behaviors that influence how we interact with others. But not all socialization is positive—parents are human, and mistakes can leave lasting impacts. In this episode, we dive into the concept of the "parent trap"—the cycle of inherited beliefs and behaviors passed down through generations.
We also discuss how you can reflect on these childhood influences and decide which principles to carry forward, empowering you to shape your own identity and relationships. By the end of the episode, you'll have practical takeaways for reassessing and owning the principles that guide your life.
Business spotlight: IG: yokateaofficial
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In today’s episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores discernment as an act of honor in relationships and social interactions. Drawing on her passion for people and sociological insights, she explains how discernment enables honest assessments of others’ capabilities, fostering healthier, more balanced connections. Jessamyn encourages listeners to view discernment not as judgment, but as a valuable tool for honoring themselves and others.
Christy Kioko | IG: christykioko
Relational Intelligence | IG: Dharius Daniels
"Been Through That" by Majid Jordan | IG: Majidjordan
In today’s episode of Specimen the Sociologist, titled "N95," we explore Erving Goffman’s dramaturgical theory, which examines how we, as individuals, take on curated roles to navigate the complexities of social interactions. Goffman’s insights reveal that much of our behavior is a performance, shaped by societal expectations. By the end of this episode, we hope to inspire you to question the roles you’ve adopted and remove the "mask" that may be hiding your most authentic self.
Artist spotlight | IG: Kylamaeo
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In this episode, host Jessamyn Reichmann explores the concept of purity from a fresh perspective, arguing that true purity is synonymous with freedom. She delves into how living a life free from societal expectations allows one to embrace individuality and celebrate the beauty of peculiarity. Jessamyn challenges the conventional views on purity, inviting listeners to rethink what it means to live authentically and without constraint
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